Who is Ubume in Demon Slayer? Light Novel Character, Explained

The identity of Ubume, a lower moon rank demon in Demon Slayer, is a popular topic among fans of the series who often encounter her name in fan discussions. Throughout the light novels, Ubume serves as an antagonist and her character is shrouded in themes of motherhood and its twisted corruption after her transformation into a demon. This could potentially draw a thematic connection to Sanemi’s own story.

Sanemi’s journey was initiated by the heartbreaking duty of killing his own mother, who had transformed into a demon. This experience fueled his hostility towards all demons, a sentiment that resurfaces as he ultimately faces and defeats Ubume, ultimately leading to his promotion to the position of Hashira.

To avoid revealing spoilers for the Demon Slayer series, please note that this article contains a disclaimer.

Demon Slayer – The Importance of Ubume in Sanemi’s Backstory

Nakime, one of the Twelve Kizuki as shown in the anime (Image via Ufotable)
Nakime, one of the Twelve Kizuki as shown in the anime (Image via Ufotable)

The third light novel spin-off in the series features Ubume as the main antagonist, known as Lower Rank 1 among the Twelve Kizuki. She is described as a small woman with braided dark hair, accented by a crimson flower, and striking blood-red eyes.

At first, Ubume portrays herself as a gentle and nurturing mother figure, showing compassion towards her victims as if they were her own offspring. However, beneath this mask lies a cruel and callous nature.

Muzan Kibutsuji as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Ufotable)
Muzan Kibutsuji as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Ufotable)

Despite her transformation into Ubume, Yae’s past as a human remains unsettling, as it is revealed that she had killed her abusive husband and subjected her sickly daughter, Sae, to cruel acts in a twisted attempt to derive pleasure from her suffering. Even after Sae’s passing, Yae’s fixation persisted, ultimately leading her to become a demon through the manipulation of Muzan Kibutsuji.

As Ubume, she continues to fulfill her twisted maternal role by targeting children and victims, subjecting them to brutal treatment until their eventual deaths. She believes that by doing so, she will reunite with them spiritually. Anyone who opposes her is deemed an ungrateful traitor and meets a grim fate, highlighting her extreme cruelty and delusional mindset.

Young Sanemi Shinazugawa as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Ufotable)
Young Sanemi Shinazugawa as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Ufotable)

Despite Sanemi Shinazugawa’s victory over Ubume, it ultimately led to the demise of the demon. This secured his role as a Wind Hashira, but the loss of his partner, Masachika Kumeno, at the hands of Ubume still lingers in his mind. This only intensifies his deep-seated animosity towards demons.

Although Ubume’s character is exclusively featured in the light novels and has not been referenced in the anime series, her overall theme aligns with the perverse and twisted themes commonly portrayed among the Lower Moons.

Concluding Remarks

Kokushibo, one of the antagonists of the final arc as shown in the anime (Image via Ufotable)
Kokushibo, one of the antagonists of the final arc as shown in the anime (Image via Ufotable)

Despite the Demon Slayer anime nearing its conclusion with the final arc being adapted into a trilogy of films, there has been little additional content released since the manga’s conclusion. Nevertheless, there is a possibility that the light novels may be adapted into a mini-series or movie, potentially serving as a prequel to the main storyline.

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